Professional EU Settlement Scheme Assistance
Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be able to submit a new application, apply for settled status after holding pre-settled status or make a late application where permitted under the current immigration rules. Eligibility will depend on factors such as your residence in the UK, your family relationship and whether you satisfy the relevant requirements of the scheme.
A successful application under the EU Settlement Scheme will normally result in either settled status or pre-settled status, allowing eligible individuals to continue living in the UK in accordance with the applicable immigration rules. If you require guidance with your application, an experienced EU Settlement Scheme lawyer can help you understand your eligibility and prepare the correct supporting evidence.
Who Can Apply for the EU Settlement Scheme?
Eligibility for the EU Settlement Scheme depends on your individual circumstances, including when you began living in the United Kingdom and your relationship to an eligible person. Although the main application deadline has passed, some individuals may still be eligible to apply under the current immigration rules.
EU, EEA or Swiss Citizen
You must be an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen who began living in the UK before the relevant qualifying date.
Family Member of Eligible Person
You may be eligible as a family member of an eligible EU, EEA or Swiss citizen with settled or pre-settled status.
Family Member of Northern Ireland Person
You may be eligible as a family member of an eligible person of Northern Ireland.
Joining Family Member
You may be eligible as a joining family member who satisfies the applicable immigration requirements.
Pre-Settled to Settled
You may be eligible to apply for settled status after previously being granted pre-settled status.
Late Application
You may be eligible to make a late application where there are reasonable grounds for applying after the relevant deadline.
EU Settlement Scheme Fees
There is currently no Home Office application fee to apply under the EU Settlement Scheme, provided you meet the relevant eligibility requirements. This applies to both settled and pre-settled status applications.
Verify Your EligibilitySettled Status and Pre-Settled Status Under the EU Settlement Scheme
A successful application under the EU Settlement Scheme UK will normally result in either settled status or pre-settled status, depending on how long you have lived in the United Kingdom and whether you meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
Settled Status
Applicants who have completed the required period of continuous residence may be eligible for settled status, which allows them to remain in the UK without time restrictions.
Pre-Settled Status
Those who have not yet completed the required qualifying period may instead be granted pre-settled status, enabling them to continue living in the UK before becoming eligible to apply for settled status.
Applying for Settled Status
Individuals with pre-settled status may generally apply for settled status once they satisfy the continuous residence requirements under the scheme.
Extending Pre-Settled Status
In some circumstances, pre-settled status may also be extended in accordance with current Home Office policies.
What Happens After Your EU Settlement Scheme Application?
Understanding the application process after you submit your EU Settlement Scheme application.
Application Review
After you submit your EU Settlement Scheme application, the Home Office will review your application and supporting documents to confirm that you meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
Certificate of Application
If your application is accepted for consideration, you will normally receive a Certificate of Application, which can be used in certain circumstances to demonstrate your rights while your application is being processed.
Decision and Status
If your application is successful, you will be granted either settled status or pre-settled status and receive confirmation of the decision from the Home Office. Your immigration status will be recorded digitally through an eVisa.
Further Information or Refusal
If the Home Office requires further information or supporting evidence, you may be contacted before a decision is made. Where an application is refused, applicants may have the right to request a review or appeal the decision.
Your Rights Under the EU Settlement Scheme
What You Can Do
- Live in the United Kingdom in accordance with your granted status
- Work or be self-employed without requiring a separate work visa
- Study at eligible educational institutions
- Access the NHS and other public services, where eligible
- Claim certain benefits and pensions, subject to the applicable eligibility requirements
- Travel in and out of the UK while maintaining your status in accordance with the relevant immigration rules
Important Information
- You must maintain continuous residence to qualify for settled status
- Your status is recorded digitally through an eVisa
- Individuals with settled status can normally remain in the UK without time restrictions
- You may become eligible to apply for British citizenship if you meet the relevant requirements
How Westbury Law Can Help with EU Settlement Scheme Applications
At Westbury Law, our EU Settlement Scheme lawyers provide clear and practical guidance to individuals applying under the EU Settlement Scheme. Whether you are applying for settled status, pre-settled status or need advice on your eligibility, our team can help ensure that your application is prepared accurately and supported by the appropriate evidence.
We can assist with assessing your eligibility under the EU Settlement Scheme UK, advising on whether you may qualify for settled or pre-settled status, reviewing your supporting documents before submission, assisting with late applications where permitted under the immigration rules, preparing a complete application in accordance with current UK immigration requirements, and advising on Home Office requests for further information or evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an EU Settlement Scheme application take?
The EU Settlement Scheme processing time can vary depending on the complexity of the application and whether the Home Office requires additional information. Processing times differ from case to case and applicants may experience longer waiting periods if further evidence is requested.
Is there a fee for the EU Settlement Scheme?
No. There is currently no Home Office application fee to apply under the EU Settlement Scheme, provided you meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
Who can apply for the EU Settlement Scheme?
The EU Settlement Scheme is available to eligible EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who began living in the UK by the relevant qualifying date, as well as certain eligible family members and other individuals who meet the requirements of the scheme.
What is the difference between settled and pre-settled status?
Applicants who have completed the required period of continuous residence in the UK are generally granted settled status, while those who have not yet completed the qualifying residence period may receive pre-settled status if they meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
What documents are required for an EU Settlement Scheme application?
Applicants will normally need to provide proof of identity, evidence of their residence in the UK or qualifying family relationship where applicable and any additional supporting documents requested by the Home Office. The exact documents required depend on the applicant's individual circumstances.
Can I apply to the EU Settlement Scheme after the deadline?
In some circumstances, late applications may still be accepted if the applicant is eligible and can demonstrate reasonable grounds for applying after the relevant deadline. Each application is assessed on its individual merits by the Home Office.
Secure Your UK Immigration Status with Confidence
Applying under the EU Settlement Scheme is an important step towards protecting your right to live, work and study in the United Kingdom. Whether you are applying for settled status, pre-settled status or require advice on your eligibility, ensuring that your application is complete and supported by the correct evidence can help make the process as straightforward as possible.
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Send your EU Settlement Scheme details for a quick review.
Use this form to consult with a specialist lawyer on your EU Settlement Scheme eligibility, settled or pre-settled status, and documentation.